Universal Orlando Resort is heading into 2026 with a quieter kind of shakeup. There’s no big announcement banner and no dramatic farewell events tied to what’s coming. Instead, changes are arriving gradually, spread out across the calendar, and layered in a way that’s already catching the attention of longtime fans. Some closures will barely register. Others could dramatically reshape how guests experience their day.
What makes this moment stand out is how little is being spelled out upfront. Most of these shutdowns don’t come with sweeping explanations, which has fueled plenty of speculation. Before breaking down what’s closing and when, it’s worth looking at how the resort itself has evolved to reach this point.
A Resort That’s Still Expanding
Universal Orlando Resort now operates four distinct parks, each serving a different role in the guest experience. Universal Studios Florida anchors the resort with movie-based attractions. Islands of Adventure leans into immersive lands and high-thrill rides. Volcano Bay offers a seasonal escape to a water park. Epic Universe, which opened in May 2025, has already changed how guests plan their visits.
With four parks operating simultaneously, Universal’s operational demands have increased significantly. Maintenance windows, staffing, and guest flow now require tighter coordination than ever before. That reality helps explain why 2026 looks especially heavy on refurbishments and temporary closures.
Some of these shutdowns are expected. Others stretch long enough to raise eyebrows. Together, they suggest a year focused on behind-the-scenes work rather than headline-grabbing additions.
Revenge of the Mummy
Revenge of the Mummy will close briefly from January 15 through January 21 for refurbishment. The short timeline suggests standard maintenance, rather than a significant overhaul. Even so, losing one of the park’s most intense indoor coasters, even temporarily, can shift crowd patterns in noticeable ways.
Hogwarts Express
The Hogwarts Express will undergo a scheduled refurbishment from February 9 to February 23. Since the train connects Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, its closure significantly impacts park hopping. Guests will need to reconsider how they move between parks during that time frame.
Jurassic Park River Adventure
Jurassic Park River Adventure will face the longest closure of the year, scheduled from January 5 through November 19. That length alone has sparked speculation. Some fans believe Universal could be refreshing effects and animatronics. Others wonder if a Jurassic World reimagining is possible, similar to the one in California. Universal hasn’t confirmed anything beyond refurbishment plans.
Finnegan’s Bar and Grill
Finnegan’s Bar and Grill will close on January 12 and isn’t expected to reopen until winter 2026. The extended downtime suggests more than a surface-level refresh. Its absence removes a popular sit-down dining option from Universal Studios Florida for most of the year.
Volcano Bay
Volcano Bay enters its seasonal closure on October 26, 2026, with a reopening planned for March 24, 2027. While seasonal closures are expected, they still impact fall and winter travel planning, especially for guests hoping to mix water park time into cooler months.
Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls will likely close sometime in October or November for its annual seasonal refresh. This closure follows a familiar pattern as temperatures cool, but it still removes a classic attraction during peak fall travel periods.
Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges
Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges usually close for about a month and a half, typically between February and March. The ride’s reputation for soaking guests makes winter downtime logical, even if it temporarily thins out water ride options.
Horror Make Up Show
The Horror Make Up Show remains the biggest unknown. Universal previously announced a reimagining with a January 2026 closure, but later revised that timeline, stating, “The timeline for the planned enhancements and temporary closure of the Horror Make-Up Show has shifted.” While nothing is confirmed, a temporary shutdown later in 2026 remains possible.
Looking Ahead
Individually, these closures make sense. Together, they reveal a resort preparing for long-term growth. For guests planning visits in 2026, awareness will be key. These pauses may feel inconvenient now, but they often signal what is to come.
